2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Audi Q5

The 2023 Audi Q5 presented a sophisticated blend of subtle curves and angular accents, creating a classy yet sporty exterior. It was available in two body styles: the standard Q5 SUV and the Q5 Sportback, which featured a sloping rear roofline for a sleeker silhouette. Despite the typical reservations about coupelike styling, the Q5 Sportback stood out with a spoiler-like element above the taillights, offering a more defined transition from hatch to tail section. Inside, the Q5 was refined with a simple layout, though its age was beginning to show. Standard features included leather seating and heated front seats, with options for a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The 10-inch touchscreen was a nod to traditional design amidst a trend of larger screens. While materials were of good quality, the Q5 no longer felt as special compared to newer non-luxury competitors. The build quality was robust, with no squeaks or creaks, making it a solid choice among luxury SUVs.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a range of trims, with the SX Prestige X-Line model showcasing premium Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a third-row seat suitable for adults. The interior was enhanced by a dual sunroof panel, adding light to the otherwise dark cabin. Controls were oriented horizontally, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that was user-friendly, though the metallic finish buttons were hard to read in bright sunlight. The Telluride included thoughtful details like a digital instrumentation panel that changed with the time of day and generous storage space. A hands-free power liftgate was available, providing convenience, though it could be undesirable in certain situations. Cargo space was ample, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded, making it one of the most spacious in its segment.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine choices. The base 40 TFSI was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The midrange 45 TFSI increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, and was the sole engine for the Q5 Sportback. The 55 TFSI plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an electric-only range of 23 miles. All Q5s featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a delay in power delivery due to the transmission, making initial acceleration feel sluggish. However, once underway, power was adequate. Handling was sporty, with precise steering, and the Q5 balanced compliance and cornering well. The cabin remained quiet, with minimal road and wind noise.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Most Tellurides could tow 5,000 pounds, with the X-Pro package increasing capacity to 5,500 lbs. The AWD models included a locking center differential and various driving modes, including Snow. The Telluride offered good acceleration and passing power, though fuel efficiency was lacking, with an average of 19 mpg in combined driving. The SUV was quick and refined, with Torque Vectoring Cornering Control enhancing its athleticism. The ride was firm at lower speeds but compliant at higher velocities, absorbing road undulations well. Off-road, the Telluride was more capable than expected, handling various terrains with ease.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design had remained largely unchanged since 2018, but it was still functional and well-organized. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned atop the dash for easy visibility, with traditional dials and buttons for climate controls. Visibility was good, aided by a narrow front roof pillar. The front seats offered ample space for taller passengers, and the rear seats accommodated six-footers comfortably. Storage options were available, though some were oddly sized. Cargo space was 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, slightly reduced in the Sportback model.

The 2024 Kia Telluride provided a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims. The SX Prestige X-Line model featured premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a third-row seat for adults. The dual sunroof added light to the cabin. Controls were user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Storage was generous, with a covered cubby and door panel bins. The hands-free power liftgate was convenient, though it could be turned off if needed. Cargo space was ample, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Audi Q5 came standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. However, the system took time to boot up, and Apple CarPlay activation was slow. Both CarPlay and Android Auto were available wirelessly. A Bang & Olufsen audio system was standard on higher trims. The Q5 could be monitored remotely via a smartphone app, with features like unlocking and temperature pre-conditioning. Mid-range trims included a customizable digital instrument panel.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. Kia Connect subscription was needed for voice recognition. The test vehicle had satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Thoughtful features included a blue-light filter, Quiet Mode, and a digital key function. A camera-based rearview mirror and a 10-inch head-up display were available, along with a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from the NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, and four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera system, and traffic jam assist. The top trim included matrix-design LED headlights and a semi-automated parking system.

The 2024 Kia Telluride boasted a comprehensive Kia Drive Wise suite of driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Highway Driving Assist was standard, with upgrades available depending on the trim. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.